2025 World Rugby Awards: Celebrating New Talent and Established Champions

Henry Pollock: England’s Emerging Flanker Shines Luminous

At only 20 years old, Henry Pollock has rapidly risen through teh ranks to become one of the four finalists for World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year. his impressive debut season on the international stage has drawn significant attention from rugby enthusiasts worldwide.

Pollock made a memorable impact during his first international appearance against Wales in March, where he scored two tries. This standout performance earned him a spot on the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia, although he did not feature in any Test matches during that campaign.

The Northampton flanker continued to demonstrate his value throughout the autumn internationals, adding three more caps and scoring a pivotal try in England’s dominant 25-7 win over australia on November 1. Should he win, Pollock would be England’s first recipient of this award as Maro Itoje took it home in 2016.

Breakthrough Player Contenders from Around the Globe

• Fabian Holland (New Zealand): Born in the Netherlands but now a key figure for New Zealand, Holland impresses with his aggressive style and commanding presence within their forward pack.
• Ethan Hooker (South Africa): Renowned for his explosive speed and clinical finishing on the wing, Hooker is quickly establishing himself as an essential player for South Africa’s national team.
• Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (Australia): The Australian backline star brings versatility and creativity that make him a formidable threat across multiple positions.

aiming for Glory: Louis Bielle-Biarrey Nominated Among Top Players

The French winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey stands out as one of this year’s nominees for World Rugby Player of the Year after an remarkable six Nations tournament. At just 22 years old, he set a new record by scoring eight tries-the highest ever recorded by any player in a single edition-securing him player of the tournament honors.

If victorious, bielle-Biarrey would join Fabien Galthie (2002), Thierry Dusautoir (2011), and Antoine Dupont (2021) as France’s fourth winner of this prestigious accolade.

The Fierce Challenge from South African Stars

Pieter-Steph du Toit returns as defending champion alongside fellow Springboks Malcolm Marx and Ox Nche. Du Toit is chasing history by attempting to become only the third player-and first South African-to claim three World Rugby Player of the Year awards. He would join New Zealand legends Dan Carter and Richie McCaw who have previously achieved this rare feat.

Award night Highlights & Additional Honors

The winners across all categories will be announced on Saturday, November 22. Besides individual awards such as Breakthrough player and Men’s 15s Player of the Year, other exciting recognitions include Try of the Year featuring breathtaking efforts from global stars:

• Santiago Cordero (Argentina) – Spectacular try against British & Irish Lions during June;
• Santiago Pedrero (Chile) – Memorable score in RWC qualifier versus Samoa;
• Lekima Tagitagivalu (Fiji) – Remarkable try against Australia;
• Tupou Vaa’i (New Zealand) – Stunning effort versus France last July;

Nominations Overview: Key Players to Watch

Men’s 15s Breakthrough player Nominees:

• Fabian Holland (New Zealand)
• Ethan Hooker (South Africa)
• Henry Pollock (England)
• Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (Australia)